Have you had to deal with anaphylaxis while on a cruise? Are they equipped to handle this type of emergency?

Question

If so, what cruise line were you on?

Answer 1

All major cruise lines that sail out of the US are required to have a doctor and one or more nurses onboard.  You will be fine.

That said, I because of allergies I carry my own Epipen.  It's a pseudo-epinpherine auto-injector, so if I have a reaction I can use it myself.  (Jab pen-shaped device into leg.  Scary but easy.)  Any doctor can write you a prescription and explain how to use it.

FYI, Holland America Line has a particularly good reputation for medical care -- and all their doctors are from North America.  Not to disparage doctors from other places, but even though all the doctors will speak English, US and Canadian doctors may be easier to work with.

I hope you have a healthy and enjoyable trip.

Answer 2

They have a full medical team onboard the ship with all that is needed to do basic health care. I have gone to the doctor before, and he was great. The ships really are like a small city. They have everything on them.. In fact the ship has more people and staff on them then my home town has. They even have a morgue onboard the ship. I have seen elderly people die before on a ship, just like in any small town.

Answer 3

Yes, they are prepared for this and just about anything else.